Data released by the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) shows there was a total of 760 recorded complaints against the force.

Of the complaints finalised in 2016-17, 23 per cent were investigated by the force and 59 per cent were dealt with through local resolution.

Generic stock picture of Humberside police officer

Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner Keith Hunter revealed the figures are 'not new' to him and says he has been working with the force to try and understand the 'significant rises' in the recording of complaints.

"Only a relatively small number are for potentially serious matters and the majority are sorted out in an informal manner between the complainant and the officers and staff complained against," Mr Hunter said.

"I do think it is likely there are at least some indirect links between the poor morale of officers and staff in the force and the increased number of complaints. It should be of no surprise to anyone that unhappy staff are less likely to provide the best service.

Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner Keith Hunter

"I will be keeping a close eye on this and hope to see figures improve as the force continues on its path of improvement and re-engagement of staff and officers."

The IPCC has promised there will be significant changes to the police complaints system in 2018, including a greater role for police and crime commissioners, who will decide on appeals that do not go to the commission.

Read More

The IPCC has also repeated its call for the system to be simplified, and for a consistent approach to complaints and complainants across forces.

Chairwoman Dame Anne Owers said: "The public need to have a high level of confidence in the police complaints system. If they complain about their local police force they should be assured that it will be dealt with robustly and fairly.

"The current system is extremely complex and bureaucratic and this has led to some of the inconsistencies we have recorded year on year. It is also not sufficiently independent, since some dissatisfied complainants can only appeal to the force that rejected their complaint in the first place.

"The new system will be simpler and more flexible, and will also provide an independent appeal right for everyone, either to the IPCC or to a Police and Crime Commissioner.

Read More

"This is welcome, but we will still need to ensure that complainants throughout the country can be assured that their complaints will be handled appropriately and thoroughly.

"We look forward to working with police and crime commissioners as they take on greater responsibility for complaints in their areas, to share knowledge and ensure effective and consistent oversight of the police complaints system."